Every year, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) enforces strict deadlines for tax filings and payments. Filing your taxes on time ensures you avoid penalties and receive your refund as quickly as possible.
For 2025, the individual tax return deadline remains April 30, with different deadlines for self-employed individuals, businesses, and tax installments.
Below is a complete list of tax deadlines for 2025 to help you stay compliant.
When Can You File Taxes in 2025?
The CRA’s NETFILE system (for electronic tax submissions) opens on February 24, 2025. This allows early filers to submit their returns and get refunds faster.
If you choose to file by mail, ensure your return is postmarked by the deadline to avoid late penalties.
Important CRA Tax Deadlines for 2025
| Deadline | Event |
|---|---|
| February 24, 2025 | CRA NETFILE opens for early tax filers. |
| March 3, 2025 | Last day to contribute to RRSP, PRPP, or SPP for 2024. |
| April 30, 2025 | Tax return filing deadline for individuals. |
| April 30, 2025 | Deadline to pay any taxes owed to the CRA. |
| June 16, 2025 | Filing deadline for self-employed individuals and their spouses. |
| June 16, 2025 | Deadline for sole proprietors & partnerships with a calendar year-end. |
| Tax Installment Deadlines | March 15, June 15, September 15, December 15 |
Who Has a Different Tax Deadline?
Self-Employed Individuals
- Filing Deadline: June 16, 2025 (since June 15 falls on a Sunday).
- Payment Deadline: April 30, 2025 (interest starts accruing after this date).
Businesses & Corporations
- Sole proprietors & partnerships: June 16, 2025, if the fiscal year matches the calendar year.
- Incorporated businesses: File within 6 months of the fiscal year-end.
Deceased Taxpayers
- If the person passed away between January 1 and October 31, 2024, their tax return is due April 30, 2025.
- If they passed away between November 1 and December 31, 2024, the return is due 6 months after the date of death.
- If the deceased was self-employed, the deadline extends to June 16, 2025, but interest still applies after April 30.
Penalties for Late Tax Filing in Canada
Missing a tax deadline can result in financial penalties and daily interest charges.
Late Filing Penalties for Individuals
- 5% penalty on the amount owed.
- 1% additional penalty per month (up to 12 months).
- Daily interest accrues on unpaid amounts.
Late Filing Penalties for Self-Employed & Small Businesses
- Payroll tax non-compliance penalties:
- 10% penalty for the first payroll deduction failure.
- 20% penalty for repeated failures.
- Late GST/HST remittances:
- 3% penalty, increasing up to 20% for repeated failures.
How to File Your Taxes in Canada
The CRA provides multiple ways to file your taxes, depending on your financial situation.
1. NETFILE (Online Tax Software)
- Who Can Use It? Most Canadian residents.
- Processing Time: Within 2 weeks.
- Cost: Free or varies by provider.
2. Tax Professionals (Accountants & Tax Preparers)
- Who Can Use It? Anyone needing professional assistance.
- Processing Time: Typically 2 weeks.
- Cost: Varies depending on the service provider.
3. Community Volunteer Tax Clinics
Who Can Use It? Low-income individuals with simple tax situations.
Processing Time: Within 2 weeks.
Cost: Free.
4. Paper Tax Returns (Mailed)
- Who Can Use It? Anyone preferring manual submission.
- Processing Time: Up to 8 weeks (if filed on time).
- Cost: Free.
What Happens If You Don’t File Your Taxes on Time?
Failing to file taxes can result in:
- Penalties and interest charges.
- Delays in benefits like the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) or GST/HST credit.
- Potential CRA audits and legal consequences.
Even if you cannot pay your taxes in full, it is better to file on time to avoid late penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the tax deadline for individuals in Canada?
The deadline to file 2024 taxes is April 30, 2025.
When do self-employed Canadians need to file taxes?
Self-employed individuals must file by June 16, 2025, but must pay any owed taxes by April 30.
When can I file my 2025 tax return?
The CRA’s NETFILE system opens on February 24, 2025.
What happens if I miss the tax deadline?
A 5% penalty is applied to unpaid taxes, plus 1% per month for up to 12 months.
Can I file my taxes online?
Yes, NETFILE is the fastest way to file electronically and receive your refund sooner.
What if I owe taxes but can’t pay them?
File your return on time to avoid penalties, and arrange a payment plan with the CRA.
What are the tax installment deadlines for 2025?
Quarterly installment payments are due on:
- March 15
- June 15
- September 15
- December 15
Can I file taxes if I moved to Canada in 2024?
Yes, newcomers to Canada must file taxes for the portion of the year they lived in Canada.
Conclusion
Filing taxes on time is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure you receive any benefits or refunds without delays.
- Individual tax deadline: April 30, 2025.
- Self-employed tax deadline: June 16, 2025.
- Business and deceased taxpayer deadlines vary.
To maximize refunds and minimize penalties, consider filing early through NETFILE or a tax professional.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
